Explore colorful mangrove foliage in Dapeng

You don’t have to wait until autumn to witness breathtaking brown and red foliage scenes. Along the Dongchong River near its estuary on the Dapeng Peninsula, dense mangroves showcase a rich palette of colors — red, yellow, brown, and bluish-green — rivaling the beauty of famed autumn bald cypresses in Shenzhen.

An aerial view of the mangrove trees offering colorful foliage scenes in Dongchong, Dapeng New Area. Photos by Shenzhen Evening News

Currently, the mangroves are alive with vibrant wildlife. Many species of insect nymphs inhabit the red leaves, while lively birds flit and leap among the treetops. In the shallow waters beneath, flocks of white egrets rest: Some perch lazily on mangrove branches, while others elegantly stride through the water, frequently dipping their heads underwater in search of food.

Leaves of mangroves are turning red in Dongchong, Dapeng New Area. 

Mangroves are wetland plants rich in tannins. Their leaves turn red as tannins oxidize when exposed to air, especially after the bark peels off. The mangroves near the Dongchong estuary cover approximately 44,667 square meters and include varieties such as derris, aegiceras, and kandelia. The Dongchong mangroves are home to the tallest and largest clusters of derris trees found in Shenzhen. Their annual “color-changing season” usually occurs in May, making it a distinctive natural phenomenon.

Leaves of mangroves are turning red in Dongchong, Dapeng New Area. 

Visitors eager to experience this vibrant ecosystem can explore Dongchong Mangrove Wetland Park. Here, mudflats densely carpeted with mangroves provide vital habitats for diverse birdlife and marine species. Located just a 10-minute walk from the beach, the park features several boardwalks, aerial bridges, and hiking trails winding through lush vegetation, creating a serene “water-bound secret realm.”

One of the park’s highlights is the striking blue sky bridge stretching across half of the park. Its sleek, flowing design resembles a floating ribbon weaving through the mountainside.

After touring the mangroves, visitors can also enjoy swimming, surfing, seaside views, and photography along the nearby coastline.

Venue: Dongchong Mangrove Wetland Park, Dapeng New Area

Transport: Take bus M231 or Holiday Line 5 of Dapeng New Area and alight at “Dongchong Yuchang” stop (东涌浴场站)